Lord Ganesha
गणेश — Remover of Obstacles, God of Beginnings
Iconography & Symbolism
Elephant head (wisdom, memory). Large belly (contains the entire universe). One broken tusk (used as pen to write Mahabharata). Four arms holding: pasha (noose), ankusha (goad), modak (sweet), and blessing mudra. Mouse at his feet. Red/orange colored.
Story & Mythology
Parvati created Ganesha from turmeric paste while Shiva was away, instructing him to guard the door while she bathed. When Shiva returned, Ganesha blocked his entry. Not knowing the boy was his son, Shiva beheaded him. Parvati was devastated and threatened to destroy the universe. Shiva sent his ganas to find the first creature facing north — they brought an elephant's head. Shiva attached it and revived Ganesha, declaring him the leader of all ganas (hence Ganapati) and the first deity to be worshipped before all others.
Sacred Mantras
Major Temples
- 🛕Ashtavinayak (8 Ganesha temples in Maharashtra)
- 🛕Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai
- 🛕Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati, Pune
- 🛕Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, Jaipur